Travelers planning a trip to the United Kingdom this summer will need to be aware of the latest entry requirements. Since Brexit, travel in and through the UK has seen significant changes, leading to an updated visa and entry system for many visitors. Whether you are visiting for tourism, business, or simply passing through the UK on a layover, understanding the new travel in and through the UK rules is critical.
In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about the UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), who needs a visa, and how to ensure your journey is smooth and stress-free.
Understanding the UK’s New Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
The United Kingdom has introduced the ETA system to streamline entry processes and enhance security. Much like the United States’ ESTA system, the travel in and through the UK now requires visitors from certain countries to apply for permission before traveling.
An ETA is an electronic document linked to your passport, allowing you to visit or transit through the UK for short stays, tourism, business trips, or layovers.
For detailed official information, you can refer to the UK Government’s ETA page.
Who Needs a Visa or ETA to Enter or Transit the UK?
If you are a national of the following countries, you must obtain an ETA for travel in and through the UK:
- Armenia
- Azerbaijan
- Benin
- Bhutan
- Bolivia
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Burkina Faso
- Cambodia
- Cape Verde
- Central African Republic
- Chad
- Comoros
- Cuba
- Djibouti
- Dominican Republic
- Ecuador
- Equatorial Guinea
- Fiji
- Gabon
- Haiti
- Indonesia
- Kazakhstan
- North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea)
- Kyrgyzstan
- Laos
- Madagascar
- Mali
- Mauritania
- Montenegro
- Morocco
- Mozambique
- Niger
- Philippines
- Sao Tome e Principe
- Suriname
- Taiwan
- Tajikistan
- Thailand
- Togo
- Tunisia
- Turkmenistan
- Ukraine
- Uzbekistan
- Venezuela (biometric passport holders only)
- Zambia
If you are a citizen of one of these countries, you must apply for an ETA whether you are entering the UK as a final destination or simply travel in and through the UK on a layover.
For a complete and updated list, refer to UK Home Office’s Visa Requirements page.
What About Airside Transit Passengers?
“Airside transit” passengers are those who do not need to pass through UK border control. This can happen if:
- Your connecting flight is in the same terminal.
- You do not need to collect checked baggage.
- You remain within the secured international transit zone.
In these cases, you may not need a visa. However, travel in and through the UK is tricky—some airports or connections may require you to pass through immigration even if you are only transiting. Always confirm with your airline and airport about transit procedures.
You cannot transit airside to the Republic of Ireland or anywhere within the Common Travel Area (CTA) without passing through border control.
Who Is Exempt from Needing an ETA?
Some travelers are exempt from needing an ETA for travel in and through the UK, including:
- Irish citizens, thanks to the Common Travel Area agreement.
- Those with permission to live, work, or study in the UK, such as holders of settled or pre-settled status.
- Travelers using a British Overseas Territories Citizen passport.
- British National (Overseas) passport holders.
- Residents of Ireland traveling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man.
- Children traveling on the France-UK school trip travel information form.
- Those who are exempt from immigration control.
However, you must be able to prove your status with valid documentation. Irish citizens should carry proof of nationality when passing through border control.
Changes for EU, EEA, and Swiss Citizens
Prior to April 2, 2025, EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens enjoyed visa-free access. However, following policy changes, citizens from these regions now also require an ETA for travel in and through the UK.
For EU travelers, this marks a significant shift in travel convenience, so ensure you apply for your ETA in advance.
How to Apply for the UK’s ETA
Applying for an ETA is straightforward, resembling the US ESTA process. Here’s what you need to know:
- Cost: £16 (approximately €19)
- Application: UK ETA Application Portal
- Required:
- A valid passport (physical, not digital).
- A working email address.
- A method of payment (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, Apple Pay, or Google Pay).
- A clear photo of your passport and a passport-style photograph of yourself.
Applications typically take up to three working days, but you should apply as early as possible before traveling.
Group applications are not accepted; each traveler must apply individually.
Once approved, your ETA will be electronically linked to your passport and remain valid for two years or until your passport expires—whichever comes first.
Traveling Through a UK Airport: Do You Need an ETA?
If you are only traveling in and through the UK with a connecting flight, the situation varies:
- Same terminal, no border control: You might not need an ETA.
- Changing terminals or airports: You will almost certainly need to pass through border control and thus need an ETA.
Due to frequent terminal changes and the possibility of unexpected delays, the safest option is to apply for an ETA if there’s any doubt.
Use the UK Government’s Visa Checker to confirm your personal requirements based on your nationality and travel plans.
Important Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Apply early: Don’t leave your ETA application to the last minute.
- Double-check flight connections: Confirm with your airline if you will pass through UK border control.
- Carry proper documentation: Always travel with the passport you applied with and proof of exemptions if any.
- Stay informed: Immigration rules can change; stay updated through reliable sources like LatestTravel.News.
FAQs
1. How long is the UK’s ETA valid for?
The ETA is valid for two years or until the passport used for the application expires, whichever comes first.
2. Can I apply for the UK ETA as a group?
No, each individual traveler must submit a separate application for the ETA.
3. What happens if my UK ETA application is delayed?
You cannot travel without an approved ETA. If you are waiting for approval close to your travel date, you must delay your journey until you receive confirmation.
